Following the verdict, the tearful actor, flanked by family and friends, made a statement on the steps of the court.

He said: "I am delighted obviously, it is a weight off everyone's shoulders.

"And I would just like to thank my fantastic legal team, the family for their support, security, and I would like to thank ITV for their continued support throughout this traumatic time for all of us, and I would like to say thank you all for being patient.

"And I might go and have a drink now."

Asked when he would return to the popular soap, he said: "I might have a holiday first.